DAPA Awards Hanwha Aerospace $482M Contract for L-SAM Anti-Ballistic Missiles

Hanwha Aerospace has secured a major defense contract with South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), valued at KRW 705 billion, or approximately USD 482 million. The agreement covers the mass production and delivery of the Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, including launchers and anti-ballistic missiles, with completion scheduled by 2030. This marks a significant step in strengthening South Korea’s layered missile defense architecture.

Photo: Hanwha

The L-SAM system is designed to provide high-altitude interception capability, adding an additional layer of protection before other systems such as the Medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile (M-SAM) and the Patriot batteries are activated. By engaging incoming ballistic threats at greater altitudes, the system enhances the survivability of critical infrastructure and population centers. It also demonstrates South Korea’s commitment to advancing indigenous missile defense technologies.

At the core of the L-SAM’s advanced performance is the integration of the Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) combined with a dual-pulse propulsion system. These technologies enable precise maneuvering and sustained thrust during flight, allowing the missile to intercept ballistic targets at altitudes where conventional aerodynamic control surfaces are ineffective. This ensures greater reliability and effectiveness in neutralizing high-speed threats.

The missile’s specifications highlight its formidable capabilities. With a length of seven meters, the L-SAM Block 1 variant has an operational range of 150 kilometers and a flight ceiling between 50 and 60 kilometers. The Block 2 variant is expected to extend the interception altitude to 150–180 kilometers, significantly expanding coverage. The missile can reach speeds of up to Mach 9, or 11,000 kilometers per hour, making it one of the fastest interceptors in South Korea’s arsenal.

In parallel with the missile contract, DAPA signed a separate agreement worth KRW 357.3 billion with Hanwha Systems for the production of the Multi-Function Radar (MFR). This radar serves as the “eyes” of the L-SAM system, providing long-range detection and tracking of both ballistic missiles and hostile aircraft. The MFR ensures that the interceptor missiles receive accurate targeting data, enabling successful engagements against fast-moving threats.

The Agency for Defense Development (ADD), in collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems, is also advancing the next-generation L-SAM-II program. This upgraded system aims to expand South Korea’s air and missile defense coverage by three to four times compared to current capabilities. L-SAM-II will incorporate high-altitude interceptor missiles and glide phase interceptor (GPI) missiles, with an estimated interception altitude of 180 kilometers, further enhancing strategic deterrence.

Hanwha Aerospace emphasized that the contract represents a milestone in its contribution to South Korea’s national defense. The company stated that mass production of the L-SAM will not only bolster homeland security but also create opportunities for high-value defense cooperation with international partners. This reflects South Korea’s ambition to position itself as a key player in the global defense industry.

The deployment of the L-SAM system is expected to significantly strengthen South Korea’s multi-layered missile defense network. By integrating with existing systems such as the M-SAM and Patriot, the L-SAM provides a seamless defense shield capable of intercepting threats at varying altitudes and ranges. This layered approach ensures redundancy and maximizes the probability of successful interception against evolving missile threats.

South Korea’s investment in advanced missile defense technology comes amid growing regional security challenges. The development and deployment of the L-SAM and its successor, L-SAM-II, underscore the nation’s determination to maintain a credible deterrent posture. With cutting-edge propulsion, guidance, and radar systems, the L-SAM program represents a leap forward in the country’s defense modernization efforts.

As production ramps up, Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems are expected to play central roles in shaping South Korea’s future air and missile defense landscape. The contracts highlight the synergy between government agencies and domestic defense companies in achieving strategic objectives. By 2030, the L-SAM system will stand as a cornerstone of South Korea’s defense shield, reinforcing national security and projecting technological strength on the global stage.